Purpose: This study was designed to compare hemodynamic changes, respiratory depression, and patient satisfaction between a bolus of fentanyl and an infusion of alfentanil during target-controlled propofol infusion in third molar extraction under conscious sedation.
Patients and methods: Forty patients were randomly assigned to receive either a bolus of fentanyl (n = 24) or an infusion of alfentanil (n = 16) in combination with target-controlled propofol infusion. Hemodynamic changes, respiratory depression, sedation, and cooperation scores were recorded during surgery and patient satisfaction scores were assessed after surgery.
Results: Changes in mean blood pressure, heart rate, or oxygen saturation within and between the groups were not significant throughout the procedure. There were no significant differences in sedation, cooperation, and patient satisfaction scores between the 2 groups.
Conclusion: Because there was no difference in hemodynamic variables and patient satisfaction scores between a bolus of fentanyl and an infusion of alfentanil during target-controlled propofol infusion, both combinations are suitable for conscious sedation in third molar extraction.